Created specifically for display in places of healing, Soul Vessels is a series of seven paintings concerned with the notion of emotional release. Each piece is suspended, banner like, from a boat oar which was chosen because they are tools used to navigate water and water is a metaphor for our lives. Six of the paintings are attached to old, used oars and each of the works represents an emotion that is potentially harmful to our well being. Clinging to such feelings on a conscious and subconscious level can seriously interfere with our ability to heal. The emotions I have focused  on are: fear, hate, guilt, jealousy, sorrow and anger. The images are taken from vessels made from prehistoric to modern times. Such cultural diversity is intended to reinforce the universality of the human condition. Emotions and spirit transcend whatever language we speak and whatever colour our skin happens to be. We all have feelings and we are all affected by them.

In this work, the vessel images represent a higher power.   God, Creator, or Spirit may come to mind but please use whatever term is the most comfortable for you. As you stand in front of each of the six paintings,  reflect on the corresponding emotion you may be harbouring. Dig deep into your heart and being and accept these emotions as valid. They are yours and they are within you but perhaps they no longer serve you in a healthy way.

Once you have accepted your negative emotions, give them up. Give them up to the higher power you feel closest to. You will notice that the bottom of the vessels are detached from their main bodies. This is a reminder that the vessel, like our chosen higher power, can never be filled up or be over loaded. There is always room for more. The yellow ground represents love. Energetic lines support the vessels, reinforcing their contours and guide your eyes back up to the top to encourage you to keep the process in motion.

The seventh painting is the "Vessel of Unconditional Love". This work is hung from a new boat oar and instead of "giving" to this  piece, you are invited to "take", hence the outpouring from the bottom of the vessel. It is unconditional love that helps us find the courage needed to "let go" and continue on our journey.  LOVE HEALS.

***Please scroll down to view Soul Vessels images.***

Photo credits: Tracey Crown, Cynthia Sibley